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BRIGGS FAMILY

By Greta Honsberger

The Briggs are a tight-knit family of four who have created a home they treasure in The Sanctuary. Discover the story behind their choice of residence and learn about the special moments that define their daily lives.

The decision to settle in The Sanctuary was a dream realized for the Briggs family. Having admired the neighborhood from afar, they often envisioned themselves living in this picturesque community. For Natasha Briggs, choosing a home was more than a practical decision; it was about finding a place that echoed the safety and charm of her hometown of Dallas, specifically the small central Dallas enclave Highland Park. Highland Park, one of the Park Cities close to downtown Dallas, is where Natasha worked, played, and fell in love with the old, charming, established area. Although Highland Park is surrounded by metropolitan Dallas, it is a gem of a place with stately oak trees, beautiful homes, and the feel of genuine safety. Natasha recalls their house hunt in Mandeville, “We wanted to model our home in a

preserved old but new charm environment.” The natural beauty and charm of The Sanctuary captured their hearts, offering a location that resonated with comfort and security in the same way that Highland Park did.

The Briggs moved into their Sanctuary home in June 2021, 2021. While the house was still under construction, they seized the opportunity to personalize it. A prayer room, gym, and playroom for the kids were added to the floor plan. Looking ahead, they are looking forward to adding some other special features to their home in the future but for now, really love the beauty that surrounds them in their home. Natasha’s favorite space is the prayer room. It is a sacred space for family gatherings, worship, and Bible study. With a special chandelier and hymns framed on the wall, the room holds deep significance for the family. It’s not just a physical space; it’s a spiritual refuge where the Briggs spend quality time together.

Natasha, a designer by trade, selected furnishings for their home from various sources, blending online finds with local

Natasha’s grandmother’s taste is a pair of lamps in Kenny and Natasha’s bedroom. These lamps are a tribute to her grandmother’s influence on Natasha’s life and her decor choices. Though not a wealthy lady, her grandmother loved beautiful things, and when she saw something she wanted but could not afford, she would find the closest thing to it and modify it to be as close as possible to the beautiful object she wanted. The lamps she purchased and placed in the primary suite of her home are a constant reminder of the lady who helped raise her and the one-of-a-kind style that lives on in Natasha’s own decor style.

purchases. She was methodical in determining the placement of decor and furnishings in their home. After seeing the space, she determined the project’s requirements, took her notes, scouted out resources, and shopped. Natasha says about her choices in furnishings and home decor, “It’s one of those, if you know, you know.” One standout piece is the pew in the family’s prayer room. The pew is a well-loved and cherished item that compares to a pew from a church at Whitney Plantation in Gramercy, LA. Further explaining the significance of the pew, Natasha says, “The pew was the place our ancestors gathered and sat Sunday after Sunday hoping to receive hope and the only place they truly felt safe in the world. The pew was a place where they experienced the presence of God.” This pew is at home in the Briggs’s prayer room. Another family favorite is the Briggs’s formal dining table, where Sunday dinners and gatherings with friends and family make it special.

Another significant decor choice that is reminiscent of

The Briggs family comprises two energetic boys, Liam and Roman, aged 11 and 5. Liam, a sports enthusiast attending Tchefuncte Middle School, loves all things outdoors, particularly ball games and swimming. Little brother Roman, a student at Pontchartrain Elementary School, is a budding soccer player with a passion for crafting, cooking, drawing, and building Lego sets.

As for dad, Kenny works in the maritime transportation industry. He works shift hours, which can often be long, which makes family time even more sacred. This type of work calls for him to be away often and keeps him very busy, making family time even more sacred. When time together is available, the family enjoys traveling to Destin to relax at the beach or Dallas to see family, and a Disney trip is always welcome, especially by Liam and Roman. Staying home and being together is also essential to this active family. They enjoy spending time in their media room, the family’s special gathering place for at-home family time. It’s the hub for watching Dallas Cowboys games, enjoying movies, and playing board games. This room offers a retreat from the fast-paced world that is much needed to relax, recharge and just be together. In the summer, their pool is the go-to for fun family time. This family of four appreciates their cherished time together no matter where they are. k

Photo Credits to Hessel Photography

The dining preferences of the Briggs range from the delightful taste of Gallagher’s to the family-friendly Anchor in Madisonville. Reminding them of home in Dallas, they are also a fan of Tchefuncte’s Restaurant. Flying Dolly’s and visits to Altitude for some jumping fun are popular with the boys.

Liam loves the Candy Bank in Old Mandeville for a sweet treat, and dropping by Learning Express to check out the toys is Roman’s favorite.

As a stay-at-home mom, Natasha stays pretty busy but has carved out time to write and maintain her own blog. “The focus of my blog is faith living, so I’m always looking for all things beautiful to pose or use as video background content, and The Sanctuary and local stores are great for that.” West London Boutique and Hemline are some local shops where she gathers inspiration. To take a peek at Natasha’s blog, visit on Instagram @mrsnatashabriggs.

Hoping to add a furry friend to their household, the Briggs are hunting for a big, fluffy, sunset-colored dog that they will name appropriately Sunset. No doubt this new addition will enhance their already vibrant family dynamic.

Kenny, Natasha, Liam, and Roman have crafted a life full of love and faith. Their Sanctuary home offers exactly what they wanted and searched for, including safety and a sense of community, all surrounded by a stunning natural background. As for their home itself, every room, every piece of furniture, and every corner holds a story, reflecting the uniqueness and warmth of this family’s journey together, from the past to the present and to the future, because the Briggs family is just getting started!

Relaxation Tips BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

Tori Pasentine with Royal Retreat Day Spa

Spring is here! It is time to do some spring cleaning in your personal space, both externally and internally. Read more for tips to declutter the mind and the home/office.

BRAIN DUMP: The clutter in our minds causes a myriad of negative outcomes, making it hard for us to excel in our lives. To help alleviate some of the clutter, get a piece of paper or journal and write down everything that comes to mind. Free your mind by jotting down your thoughts, feelings, goals, things to do, poems, stories, and even a list of what makes you happy or sad. Decluttering the brain helps you stay organized while alleviating stress and anxiety.

PRIORITIZE YOUR TO-DO LIST: Get organized and keep your priorities straight!

Another way to braindump while taking care of crucial matters is to tackle a To-Do list of things you have been putting off. You’ll feel much better when you list your priorities and tend to them first. Completing and checking off the items you have been avoiding is cathartic and frees your mind to move on to other essential tasks.

DECLUTTER THE OFFICE: It’s time to discard old files and papers you no longer need.

Clean your workspace so that you can work efficiently. Get all the unnecessary things out of the way so you can easily access all the necessary files and materials to stay productive. A clean space creates a higher quality of work ethic and concentration.

DECLUTTER THE HOME: It’s time to discard the things you no longer need.

We all have a place where we store our clothes, shoes, decorations, tools, or collectibles. Throw out everything that no longer fits, and you no longer need. Get all those items together, donate to people needing them more, or have a spring yard sale. A messy home causes stress and blocks the positive and luck energy needed to flow through the home.

GET SPIRITUAL: Whether it’s going to church, yoga, or meditation, now is the time to connect with a higher power. Get in tune with yourself to feel confident, strong, and determined. Show your faith and hope in believing that the universe will deliver. Keeping a positive mind provides positive results.

GET A NEW SKINCARE ROUTINE: Some of us may forget to care for our skin throughout the year.

It is time to take care of your most important feature. Don’t let bacteria and dirt pile up on your skin. Start this spring with a good cleanser. Find a gentle exfoliant to remove the dead skin, then apply a nourishing serum targeting your skin’s needs. Finally, keep your skin hydrated with a moisturizer with SPF to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. You get to look at yourself in the mirror every day. Love the skin you’re in. Check out your local spas for quality skin care products to help you renew and maintain your skin’s health.

REAL ESTATE tips BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

Amanda Colceriu-Dandu

Preparing homeowners for the bustling real estate market is important as we embrace spring. Christine and Amanda at Fine Southern Properties are happy to aid in the prepping process and have put together ten essential tips for selling success this season. Our guide ensures maximum market appeal and value from interior enhancements to curb appeal. Whether decluttering for space or rejuvenating outdoor spaces, our expert advice empowers sellers to navigate the process confidently. Make your spring selling journey seamless and rewarding with these tips.

1. Maximize Interior Appeal: Choose soft, neutral paint colors to create a welcoming atmosphere. Touch up trim and baseboards for a polished look.

2. Declutter Effectively: Pack away personal and out-of-season belongings to minimize distractions. Consider removing excess furniture to create a spacious feel.

3. Refresh Your Kitchen: Update cabinets with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. Declutter countertops to maximize space and create a clean, inviting look.

4. Evaluate Flooring: Repair or replace worn-out carpet and refinish hardwood floors. Quality flooring upgrades can significantly enhance your home’s value.

5. Upgrade Window Coverings: Consider replacing outdated blinds to add a modern touch. Keep blinds open during showings to maximize natural light.

6. Enhance Exterior: Touch up exterior paint and consider brightening your front door with a fresh coat of paint. A well-maintained exterior creates a positive first impression.

7. Clean Windows: Thoroughly clean windows inside and out to let in more natural light. Don't forget to clean window ledges for a pristine finish.

8. Seal Your Driveway: Invest in driveway sealing to eliminate stains and make your home stand out. A fresh driveway enhances curb appeal and boosts overall presentation.

9. Landscaping Matters: Invest in professional landscaping to create an attractive outdoor space. Well-maintained landscaping can significantly increase your home's market value.

10. Revitalize Your Deck: Clean and repair your deck, then apply a fresh coat of stain for a refreshed look. Quality deck maintenance enhances outdoor appeal and adds value to your home.

Contact us today for expert guidance on selling your home this spring!

“Jason

All of Your Landscape Needs

“Jason with Grass Inc. took so much time creating our oasis; he is truly gifted and has a meticulous vision for his creation, and we couldn’t be happier.”

Mary Grillo

GARDENING TIPS BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

Jason Thompson with Grass Inc

Winter is finally behind us! Spring is here, and there is work to be done for your landscaping and gardens, but where should you begin? Here are a few things you should do to get your lawn and garden healthy and ready for the months ahead.

1. It’s time to apply a slow-release fertilizer to all plants and trees.

A slow-release fertilizer works in two ways:

• It kills weeds that have already begun to grow.

• It stimulates healthy growth by giving the soil nutrients.

2. Spray beds and turf with weed control and pre-emerge

• These are important because they kill existing weeds and stop weed seeds from growing.

3. Get your irrigation system ready!

• To get your sprinkler system in good working order for spring and summer, a few easy steps will ensure its readiness.

a.) Reset irrigation controls

It will need a reset if you turn off your system during the colder months.

b.) Check your system for flow issues

Dirty sprinkler heads can keep water from flowing properly, so make sure they are in working order.

c.) Check the valves for leaks

No one wants to waste water, but leaky valves do just that

d.) Turn on your system slowly

Turn on the system slowly to prevent pipes from bursting.

e.) Replace old or broken parts

Don’t wait for an old part to break. Replace it immediately.

f.) Flush your irrigation system

Clearing out build-up will ensure that your water is being applied evenly.

g.) Clean your system’s filter

Soaking your filter in a vinegar-based solution will eliminate any build-up, and your filter will do its job again.

Chef Soiree youth service bureau

Every year for the past 39 years, the folks of St. Tammany and Washington Parishes look forward to the annual Chef Soirée at Bogue Falaya Park. This year’s celebration honors 40 years of Chef Soiree impacting lives in our community. There is much to look forward to as the event lights up Bogue Falaya Park on Sunday, March 17th, from 5 to 9.

As always, guests will be treated to the culinary and beverage delights of over ninety vendors, including Pat Gallagher, Benedict’s Catering, and Champagne Beverage Company, which have generously supported Chef Soirée since the very beginning. The musical lineup showcases Jazz 5, D.J. Mike Teifer with Off The Road Mobile DJ, 3 Rivers Band, Bryana Matt Band, and Ferg’s Hwy on dual stages, promising an exceptional musical experience. Wrapping up the evening’s festivities will be the traditional fireworks.

Bobbie Calandro, explains the evening best. “It’s not just a party it’s 40 years A Party with Cause.” Although it is a fantastic party, Chef Soirée is far more than just great food and ambiance. The origins of this well-loved event go back to the simple idea of hosting a po boy eating contest to raise funds for Youth Services Bureau. Successful, those involved decided to do it again: bigger and better. The next year it was moved to Bogue Falaya Park, with thirty-five vendors participating. Sustained entirely by volunteers, Chef Soirée became a tradition that has been going strong for four decades.

Chevron takes the spotlight as this year’s presenting sponsor, accompanied by Banner Ford’s generous support, featuring a raffle prize of a 2024 Ford Bronco Sport or Ford Mustang to be drawn during the Soiree. Other prizes will invite guests to go big with this year’s dress theme: Glitzy Gold.

Long-time volunteer and artist of this year’s Chef Soirée poster,

In its forty-year tenure, Chef Soirée has generated around 8 million dollars to support YSB programs for at-risk youth and families in St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. These funds are used for crucial programs, including Court-Appointed Special Advocates, Crossroads, Families in Need of Services, Options Substance Abuse Program, and Truancy Assessment and Services Center. With the monetary support raised by Chef Soiree, these programs will continue to serve

more than 45,000 youth and families each year. Celebrate forty years of Chef Soirée on March 17, 2024, by joining the festivities, savoring culinary delights, grooving to live music, and being part of a purposeful night under the stars. Here’s to Chef Soiree’s forty-year milestone, the dedication of the volunteers that make it all happen, and its unwavering commitment to supporting Youth Services Bureau of St. Tammany and Washington Parishes.

When “That will never happen to me” happens.

Queso & Scooter Gernon

Meet Queso and Scooter, the furry duo who have stolen the hearts of their people, the Gernon family. These two well-loved pups are as different in personality as they are in stature. Queso is a gentle Great Pyrenees/Lab mix, and his not-so-big brother, Scooter, is a bossy Dachshund Hound mix. Their antics and distinct personalities have added immeasurable enjoyment to the Gernon household and make for an entertaining feature.

A handsome Great Pyrenees/Lab mix, Queso entered the scene about a year and a half ago, becoming an instant family member. Rescued from Take Paws Rescue, Queso’s journey to his forever home started with Instagram posts. His sweet demeanor and bio caught the attention of Ashley, who had felt that the family needed another dog for a while and had been trying to convince her husband. “To my surprise, one August afternoon, he and my youngest son Colton brought me to visit Queso.” Apparently, the visit went well because Queso, known as “Moo” at Take Paws Rescue, became a member of the Gernon family that day.

Queso has a laid-back personality that contrasts with his odd fear of yard decorations. However, his quirkiest trait is a unique noise – a moo reminiscent of a cow – that adds a touch of comedy to his character and explains the mystery of his rescue name.

There are many funny escapades attributed to Queso, but one, in particular, is heartwarming: Queso loves Christmas. Anything adorned with holiday spirit becomes fair game for him to steal and stash in his bed. This big sweetheart knows and is drawn to the magic of the season. Another of his adventures involved trying to steal a ride on a delivery truck! Ashley explains this recent encounter, “Most recently, on a walk, we met a delivery truck without doors at a stop sign. Queso just one street over barked at this truck, but now, at this stop sign, he was determined to enter the truck and take a ride.”

Queso’s special bond extends to his “person,” Parker, the oldest Gernon son with whom he shares a unique bond. Now away at college in South Carolina, when Parker visits, Queso goes into a frenzied state to see his best pal return home.

Queso’s favorite pastimes involve making a splash into the tanning ledge of the family pool and engaging in playful antics with his big brother, Scoot. When it comes to toys, if they’re non-dog items like a stuffed pumpkin, he loves them.

In contrast, Scooter, the Dachshund Hound mix, has been a part of the Gernon family for a decade. Also a rescue, Scooter’s arrival was a surprise gift from Santa Claus in the form of a voucher for adopting one dog for daughter Gabrielle. Ashley describes their first encounter with Scooter while visiting the shelter. “He was shy and didn’t seem very playful at first, but when we were about to look at another dog at the shelter, he began jumping up and down, and we knew he needed to be

a part of the family.” Thus, Scooter, appropriately named “Scooter” because he is long like a scooter, became an integral part of the Gernon family.

Scooter is a red Dachshund with long legs, weighing in at 17 lbs. Despite his more diminutive stature, he holds his ground, bossing around his larger sibling, Queso, and ensuring things go his way.

Like his brother, Scooter has some quirky habits. He likes to lay on items of the same size and shape, regardless of what they are. Not a fan of being left alone, he expresses his displeasure by tossing his bed and blanket around the house. It was a mystery how Scooter’s bedding was tossed about every time the Gernons left him alone. One day, someone caught Scooter in the act, and it all made sense. When Queso gets to go out with the family without his big brother in tow, Scooter makes a beeline for Queso’s bed, which is enormous. Scooter enjoys the luxury of the bigger bed when Queso is away. His antics add a touch of humor to his darling personality.

As for his favorite activities, Scooter loves soaking up the sun, laying under covers, and, in his younger days, collecting the kids’ stuffed animals. His favorite toy? Anything that Queso is currently playing with. He is, after all, the boss.

The heartwarming tales of Queso and Scooter illustrate the transformative power of adopting rescue pets. These lovable companions share their endearing qualities and bring boundless joy, laughter, and unconditional love to the Gernon family, underscoring the profound quote, “Dogs are not our whole lives, but they make our lives whole.”

Dr. G. with VetNaturally

Pain-Free Paws: The Crucial Role of Regular Dog Nail Trims

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is VITAL to movement and overall health!!! Cats can retract their nails when they get too long. Dogs can’t do this! When a dog’s nails are too long, they must extend their phalanges to accommodate the discomfort.

When forced to extend their phalanges, they incorrectly redistribute their entire body weight throughout their joints. Their knees and elbows are adversely affected by this! Imagine trying to walk in a pair of shoes three times too small that someone shoved your foot into. It’s super painful to live every day with overgrown nails. Your dog feels pain with every step when his nails are too long.

Regular nail trims are easy and necessary to avoid this pain for your dog! They help your dog feel better and move correctly! There are solutions if the nails are too overgrown or your dog is foot-sensitive, often due to pain.

STRATEGIES TO TRIM OVERGROWN NAILS

A MULTI-TEAM MEMBER APPROACH - This approach involves five people but can be effective.

• One person holds the dog.

• One person feeds treats

• One person scratches the dog’s side

• One person quickly trimming nails

ORAL SEDATION - We try this strategy if the above doesn’t work.

• The oral sedation is given before the appointment to relax the dog.

• The dog arrives calm and relaxed.

• The dog allows the nails to be trimmed.

REVERSIBLE ANESTHESIA - This is the next option if oral sedation doesn’t work.

• Give the first injection to sedate the dog

• Trim the nails in less than five minutes.

• Give a second injection to reverse the effects of the sedation

• The dog wakes up with nails the correct length and walks pain-free, making future management easy because there is no more pain.

As a veterinarian with two rehabilitation certifications, I promise that the proper nail length is one of the most important things to care about in your pet’s health journey. Call us if you need help.

This is VetNaturally, a full-service, modern, and holistic hospital for pets.

This is Rover’s mom relaxing at home while her pet is complimentary dropped off and picked up.

This is Rover. He is a VetNaturally VIP (very important pet)

Tchefuncte’s Restaurant

Business Spotlight

Tchefuncte’s Restaurant is where culinary artisans skillfully combine Louisiana and American cuisine using the finest locally sourced ingredients. When you dine at Tchefuncte’s, you can expect fresh, top-notch steaks, fish, and seafood in a relaxing ambiance, complemented by the awe-inspiring panoramic view of the Tchefuncte River. These are just a few things that make Tchefuncte’s the ideal setting for superb dining.

The outstanding chefs of Tchefuncte’s, including Director Chef Micheal Gottlieb, Executive Chef Dan Dienemann, and Pastry Chef Brett Gauthier, are experienced masters of their craft. Fueled by a dedication to perfection, each brings a depth of culinary insight to enhance the Tchefuncte’s dining experience. The chefs of Tchefuncte’s have perfected their culinary expertise while cooking at some of the most eminent establishments across the United States. Their inventive

approaches manifest in the vibrant flavors of each dish they create.

Begin your dining experience by indulging in the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes; progress to the savory Chilean Sea Bass as your main course, accompanied by the flavorful Everything Seeded Heirloom Carrots as a side dish. Conclude your meal with the irresistible warm, sticky praline cake with butter pecan ice cream. Each meal element is crafted to ensure a thoroughly delightful dining occasion at Tchefuncte’s.

The dining experience at Tchefuncte’s emerges as a blend of culinary mastery, panoramic riverside vistas, and a genuine commitment to using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. No matter what is chosen from the enticing menu, each delicious element contributes to an unforgettable

and much-savored meal. The incredible food artistry of Tchefuncte’s chefs, combined with the serene backdrop of the Tchefuncte River, ensures a memorable dining and culinary experience for all who dine at Tchefuncte’s Restaurant.

hesselphotography.com 314.479.8074 20%

2022 HOA OFFICERS

President - Jack Jensen

Vice-President - Satya Reddy

Treasurer - Michael Gagliardi

Secretary - Donna Canalizo

Board Members - Jeff Gernon, Marissa Giglio and Shelby LaSalle

April 19th...White Wine Tasting

May 19th...Crawfish Boil

August 9th...Back to School Luau

SANCTUARY PICKLEBALL

Every Thursday Evening

Where: Sanctuary Tennis Court #3 Time: 6:00 to 8:00 PM

For more info contact: Julie Johnson at julie@jajcommunications.net

Please make sure to REGISTER YOUR GOLF CARTS with the DMV. The Sanctuary residents must follow the Mandeville city laws to operate a golf cart.

The Board sends emails out to the Association Members monthly. If you are not receiving emails, please contact: mailadmin@SanctuaryHOA.org Website - SanctuaryHoa.org

CULINARY KIDS

Business Spotlight

Prepare for a summer filled with excitement, delicious eats, and new friends at Culinary Kids! Starting May 27th and going through August 9th, the CK much-loved themed camps are back, promising a fantastic experience for every child! Take a look at some upcoming camps that will make summer even more spectacular!

Cooking with the Classics - KIDS Celebrate the world of classic books and stories in our kitchen! Sign up for literary-themed culinary adventures! From Huffle Pizza Puffs to Minotaur Sliders and more, we’ll bring daily books to life with delicious surprises!

Disney Days - Be our guest! Savor Ariel’s choice with King Triton’s octopus hotdogs, craft Captain Hook’s pirate ship breakfast boats, and take Elsa’s glittered sensory snow home. Delight in Minion favorites, whip up bear claw brownies, and explore themes from Finding Nemo to Toy Story!

Mad Science - Explore egg buoyancy in saltwater and test with sugar and baking soda. Transform eggs into bouncy balls, create kitchen quicksand, and discover the best soda and mint explosion. Engage in mad kitchen science with oozy volcanoes, exploding marshmallows, and edible experiments!

Game On! - Embark on game-inspired culinary adventures featuring Fortnite, old-school Minecraft, Plants vs. Zombies, classics like Mario Smash Bros, Monopoly, and more!

Movie Madness - Craft tropical smoothies with Moana’s coconuts enjoy rainbow waffles inspired by Trolls, savor Big Hero 6’s oriental lo mein, relish Finding Dory’s fish-art pancakes, and indulge in Ninja Turtles’ green pizza. Dive into a movie-themed week with fun activities like island art, troll toppling games, Singing talent shows, animal paintings, and more!

Special Needs Camp - Ages 10 to adult, all abilities welcome. Certified professionals teach recipes, kitchen safety, and social and independent living skills. ESYfriendly hours. Accommodates allergens and dietary restrictions with ease!

Animal Planet - Kids make crabby calzones and chihuahua tostadas, and try ham and cheese monkey bread! Animal yoga, wacky facts, and eating like animals. Explore the wild in rainforests, arctics, deserts, and oceans.

BEFORE SUMMER: Leading into summertime, Culinary Kids will have all of the usual fun events includingthe Kids’ Cooking Class every Tuesday, a Special Needs Class for young adults, every Thursday, and the popular Parent’s Night Out on Fridays. There are also Cookie Decorating Classes on March 10, April 14, and May 10th.

The Culinary Kids kitchen will be open on March 15th for a school holiday as well as Spring Break Camp from March 29 to April 5.

For the parents, the Corks and Cooking Adult cooking classes will take place on April 20th and May 4th. There are fun times ahead at Culinary Kids, so make your plans now to attend one of the fun-filled theme summer camps, or join a class and learn something new in the kitchen!

Madeleine Poirer

The Sanctuary resident and Mandeville High senior Madeleine Poirer is on the brink of new beginnings. As she looks to her future and reflects on her high school years, she graciously shares a bit of her journey.

Madeleine is an active teenager dedicated to studying her studies in order to maintain her top GPA, but that is only a small part of her day. She stays busy with several other activities. Always drawn to leadership roles, beginning freshman year at MHS, Madeleine took on the class president role. At the end of her sophomore year, Madeleine was courageous and comfortable enough to run for the school’s executive board. “Watching the magic unfold in front of me influenced me to step up and lead the new group for this school year because I wanted everyone to see how special Mandeville High is,” she says about her decision to take on the top role. Mandeville High Class President is a role she executes earnestly. As MHS Class President, her focus is on creating enjoyable experiences for classmates rather than aiming for perfection. Madeleine implemented the first-ever Trunk or Treat for neighboring elementary and middle schools this year. Naturally, it was a fun event everyone enjoyed, but her purpose was more profound than just a fun night. Madeleine explains, “I did this so we could all come together and represent Mandeville’s diversity.”

Madeleine continues to be instrumental in making her classmates’ high school experience memorable during her presidential tenure. With this role has also come wisdom. “Being president has taught me patience, responsibility, humility, perseverance, dedication, and how to love the imperfect. It doesn’t matter if my plans or activities aren’t top-level because if my classmates are having fun, then there is nothing closer to perfect than that.” As much as she has given as class president, she has gained perhaps even more from the experience.

Giving back is a prevalent theme in Madeleine’s young life; she is a staunch volunteer in the community. What started in middle school through the Builder’s Club developed into a passion she cherishes because “I found so much joy and peace being able to help others in the community.” Currently, through Mandeville High’s National Honor Society chapter, she volunteers at nursing homes and the local food bank. Giving back brings her joy, driven by a simple belief in the power of a smile to change lives.

In addition, Madeleine is also active in babysitting and nannying. She enjoys impacting those she babysits by “giving them the space to be themselves.” With so much going on, it is good that this intelligent and organized teenager uses an agenda to manage her time efficiently.

For this kind-hearted young lady, AP US History is the class she loves. This class has given her a deeper understanding of the inception of the United States, encouraging her interest in the country’s history. In gaining this knowledge, Madeleine has learned to appreciate the unique aspects that make the United States what it is.

Soccer, a longtime passion, holds sentimental value for Madeleine. Playing forward or midfield, she enjoys the adrenaline rush of scoring goals. Although she is not pursuing it in college, soccer remains close to her heart.

Balancing her hectic schedule with academics, volunteering, soccer, student council president responsibilities, and babysitting leaves little time to relax. When Madeleine does get a moment, she finds respite in movies and books.

As she looks forward to the future, college plans are in the works, with a preference for universities in the South like Auburn University, The University of Tennessee, or Florida State University. These are Madeleine’s top three choices because she feels confident in their reputable programs and safe campuses. Time will tell where this top student will land, but whatever campus she calls her new home will be lucky.

Career-wise, she’s torn between a childhood dream of a medical career and newfound strengths in literature and history. The decision between pre-law and pre-medicine is on the horizon, with Madeleine taking courses in both to figure things out.

There are some daunting aspects of leaving for college for

anyone, but for Madeleine, it is missing her sister Meredith. The two sisters are constant companions and the separation will be a challenge. This new part of her journey may separate these sisters in geographic distance, but with their bond, they will, without a doubt, remain firmly intertwined and devoted to each other.

It is an exciting time for Madeleine as she plans for the future, manages a busy schedule, and finds joy in simple acts of kindness. She eagerly anticipates celebrating achievements with friends and the thrill of graduation. She is excited about the many great things on the horizon, including celebrating accomplishments with friends and graduating. She offers a fitting simile as she looks forward to the upcoming months. “I am also so excited to graduate; I feel like it will be like the exciting cliffhanger to a book in a series.”

Transforming Backyard Bliss A FAMILY’S OASIS IN THE SANCTUARY

Enhancing the beauty of a backyard space can turn it into the perfect place for family relaxation and enjoyment. For the Grillos, the motivation behind transforming their outdoor space was rooted in an appreciation for the nature that surrounded them and the desire to make their backyard space an extension of their home.

Originally, the Grillo’s backyard was a private retreat surrounded by natural landscapes and wildlife. However, with new construction in the vicinity, maintaining privacy became a significant challenge. Add to the complexity, the yard had drainage issues that previous landscaping attempts failed to resolve adequately.

Enter Grass Inc., the landscaping company that spearheaded the Grillo’s transformative project. One of the biggest changes that turned the backyard into a serene space included the installation of a soft green privacy screen of plants along the fence line. Mary Grillo recalls seeing this particular transformation for the first time. “I was shocked and so very pleased with the size and quantity of beautiful plants that were chosen.” The selection and quantity of plants exceeded the family’s expectations, creating the lush and inviting atmosphere that the Grillos desired. A small garden was also created allowing for another seating area. This unexpected oasis further enhances the versatility of the outdoor space and demonstrates Grass Inc’s vision to maximize both functionality and aesthetics in the revitalization process.

Making a significant and stunning difference was

the installation of outdoor lighting. Strategically placed throughout the garden and the trees, this feature added a soft and lovely ambiance to the entire space.

The Grillo’s landscape makeover is a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful landscaping. They give the credit to Grass Inc. owner Jason Thompson for the planning and precision of each part of their project. From addressing the drainage issues to creating a vibrant and private retreat. The Grillo’s outdoor space is now their haven for relaxation and enjoyment, beautifully blending with the natural surroundings.